Bryce Hoppell has transitioned from a young and upcoming middle-distance star to the status of seasoned veteran. Not only has his veteran status changed, but so has his chances for an Olympic medal.
The medal he is going for now is gold.
Throughout his career, the former Midland HS star and Kansas Jayhawk grad has won on just about every level. He has a UIL 5A state title, Big 12, NCAA Indoor, NCAA outdoor, US Track and Field championships, and an Indoor World Track and Field title.
All that remains for Hoppel is the Olympic gold medal.
Hoppel's Olympic Trials win yesterday was just the penultimate step to making that happen. His winning time of 1:42.77 shows he is ready and he is even saying as much.
The winning time also resulted in an Olympic Trials record as well as Hoppel's personal record. As for what he is saying, well the Midland graduate feels as good as he looked this week, "I feel like I haven't even peaked and so it's just exciting."
Hobbs Kessler was the runner-up in the 800m finals with a time of 1:43.64 and Brandon Miller finished third in 1:43.97. Both will join Hoppel on Team USA in the event.
Kessler is a second year pro after forgoing collegiate eligibility and trains with Hoppel. Miller, also exited college early to turn professional; both are making their first Olympic teams, while Hoppel is on his second team, he has seven US championship titles.
The two youngsters are in shoes Hoppel once occupied. For Hoppel, his eye are now set higher.
The world record for the men's 800m is 1:40.91 by David Rudisha of Kenya. Almost two seconds away from that mark, Hoppel's 1:42 means he is definitely going for a gold medal in Paris.
